Lecture Notes on Filming and Experiencing Poverty

Introduction

• Chris and Zach, friends from New York and Seattle, introduce their backgrounds.
• They share their connection and mention a similar upbringing.

Chino's Story

• Chino is a 12-year-old boy from a rural village in Guatemala.
• Faces extreme poverty, living on less than $1 a day.
• Similar to 1.1 billion people globally.

Chris and Zach's Project

• Both study international development.
• Plan to live on $1 a day in Chino's village, Peñablanca, for a summer.

Journey to Peñablanca

• Start in Guatemala City, traveling via chicken bus.
• Peñablanca represents rural poverty, with 70% living under the poverty line.

Experiencing Daily Life

• Experimenting with unpredictable income by drawing daily budgets ($0-$9).
• Took out a $125 microfinance loan to replicate starting a business.

Challenges Faced

• Initial difficulty with food and resource management.
• Experiencing physical effects of malnutrition (fainting, lack of energy).
• Cultural and language barriers (learning Kachikel dialect).

Community Observations

• Witnessed high rates of poverty and lack of education access.
• Encountered tight-knit community dynamics and support systems.

Financial Management in Poverty

• Observed microfinance and community saving strategies (e.g., savings club).
• Discussed the difficulties of accessing traditional banking for loans.

Health and Emergencies

• Dealt with health issues like parasites (Giardia) due to poor living conditions.
• Experienced community support during health crises.

Reflections on Poverty

• Learned the importance of small financial increments to improve livelihoods.
• Recognized the power of community and individual empowerment.
• Noted the harsh realities and resilience of those living in poverty.

Final Thoughts

• The importance of sustainable, incremental solutions to poverty.
• Personal growth and understanding through firsthand experience.
• Acknowledgement of the complexity and multi-faceted nature of poverty.

End Note

• Reminder to not forget the people of Peñablanca and their ongoing struggles.